Originally, this genus was a subgenus of Hylobates, with all individuals considered to be one species, H. concolor.

Species within Nomascus are characterized by 52 chromosomes.

Some species are all-black, some are a lighter beige or peach hue, with a distinct black tuft of crown fur, while others have notable, light-colored cheek “patches”.

Nomascus is endemic from southern China (Yunnan) to southern Vietnam, and can also be found on Hainan.

Every species within this genus are either endangered or critically endangered; the Eastern black crested gibbon (Nomascus nasutus) has been deemed "the most-critically endangered ape species in the world".